Few things unite Texans like barbecue. And in the Hill Country, BBQ isn’t just a meal — it’s a way of life. Smoke hangs in the air like perfume, woodpiles mark the entrances of roadside shacks, and pitmasters turn slow-cooked meat into something close to art.
Whether you’re chasing that perfect bite of brisket or simply exploring small-town backroads, the Hill Country’s BBQ trail is a pilgrimage worth making. Here’s where to go when your appetite and your wanderlust collide
Coopers Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que (Llano)
They call it the “Big Chop” for a reason. Coopers is a Hill Country legend — open pits, generous portions, and a no-nonsense approach to meat. Guests pick their cuts straight from the fire, where ribs, brisket, and sausage smoke over mesquite coals. Inside, long picnic tables and cold sweet tea complete the experience.
Pro tip: order the pork chop and beans. You’ll talk about it all the way home
Black Board Bar B Q (Sisterdale)
This hidden gem combines creativity with tradition. Black Board Bar B Q smokes its meats low and slow, but the sides and sauces have a chef’s flair. Think jalapeño creamed corn, brisket tacos, and smoked deviled eggs. The rustic roadside atmosphere feels as authentic as it gets — casual, warm, and deeply Texan.
Opie’s Barbecue (Spicewood)
Just west of Austin, Opie’s serves up Hill Country classics with a friendly smile. The baby back ribs and brisket are the stars, but locals swear by the tater tot casserole and butter beans. The place fills up fast on weekends, and for good reason — every bite tastes like Texas pride.
Cranky Frank’s Barbeque (Fredericksburg)
Fredericksburg may be known for wine, but Cranky Frank’s proves the town knows barbecue too. This laid-back joint offers perfectly barked brisket, spicy sausage, and pulled pork sandwiches worth the wait. Grab a picnic table under the oaks and wash it down with a cold local beer.
The Ridge Marketplace BBQ (Kerrville)
The Ridge combines a modern coffeehouse vibe with classic Texas barbecue. The brisket tacos are a must, and the smoked turkey is a lighter but flavorful option. After your meal, wander the boutique and garden shop next door — it’s one of the most unique BBQ stops in the region.
The Bent Rim Grill (Leakey)
A favorite among bikers cruising the Twisted Sisters, The Bent Rim Grill serves hearty BBQ plates and burgers overlooking scenic canyon views. The atmosphere is pure Hill Country — friendly, open-air, and full of stories. Order the pulled pork sandwich and watch the bikes roll by.
Mac’s BBQ (Brady)
Sitting right in the heart of Texas, Mac’s BBQ is a pilgrimage stop for many barbecue fans. The pitmasters here take their time — brisket smoked for 16 hours, ribs that slide clean off the bone, and sausage that snaps perfectly with every bite.
Dave’s Smokehouse (Boerne)
Located just off Main Street, Dave’s is where locals grab lunch on Fridays and travelers discover their new favorite ribs. Their peppered brisket and homemade potato salad are classics, and the casual atmosphere makes it feel like home the moment you walk in.\
The Salt Lick (Driftwood)
You can’t talk Texas BBQ without mentioning The Salt Lick. It’s iconic — a family-run operation since 1967, known for its massive open pit and all-you-can-eat platters. The drive alone through rolling oak hills sets the mood. Get the combo plate, bring a cooler (it’s BYOB), and prepare for BBQ heaven.
Tips for Your BBQ Trail Adventure
- Go early. Many pitmasters close when they sell out.
- Bring cash. Some small-town joints still keep it old-school.
- Pair BBQ with backroads. The drives between towns are part of the adventure.
- Try the sides. Hill Country potato salad and pinto beans deserve just as much love as the meat.
- Don’t rush. BBQ is slow food — and that’s the point.
Every BBQ stop in the Hill Country tells a story — of family, tradition, smoke, and pride. You’ll find it in the way the pitmaster greets you, the smell that hangs in the air, and that first bite that makes you close your eyes and smile.
Hit the Hill Country BBQ trail with Backroads Reservations.
Find nearby cabins, ranches, and riverside homes along your smoky road trip — all featured in the Hill Country Travel App.